Application Instructions

Candidates for the LHE program come from a variety of backgrounds, demonstrate a capacity and commitment to transformative leadership, and share the common value to make a difference for college students from all walks of life.

Some students enter the program directly out of college and others have worked as higher education professionals for a number of years. Many factors are considered in the admission decision, including academic preparation, demonstrated leadership, personal and professional attainment, community outreach, school involvement, and evidence of personal growth.

The Admission Committee will review your application file once all materials have been received. Admission to the program is dependent on approval by the Admission Committee and confirmation of an approved internship by the LHE Program Director.

Required Application Materials

Apply online to the LHE program. There is no application fee for online applications.

College/University Transcripts

Official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended must be submitted directly to the BW Admission Office. Strong candidates will have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 including a 3.0 in the major.

Statement of Personal Goals, Professional Objectives and Internship Interests

Full-time and Part-time candidates: in a written statement, briefly explain how your personal goals and professional objectives will be met by pursuing graduate study in Leadership in Higher Education. This statement should be single spaced and not more than one page. Full-time candidates: view the LHE internship descriptions and on a second page, list the top four internships that closely match your interests and qualifications. Submit to the Office of Admission, or email directly to maed@bw.edu.

Resume

As part of the selection process, please submit a current resume or summary of your work history. Include your community/school leadership and involvement. If you are currently employed, be sure that your resume includes your current title and general position responsibilities, and the division or department in which you are employed. The following should also be listed: undergraduate organization memberships and leadership positions, and campus work positions, along with your responsibilities and accomplishments in both of these areas.

Recommendations

Using the online recommendation form, please provide two recommendations from people qualified to evaluate your background and potential for success in a program of graduate study. Recommendations may come from former faculty members, college/university administrators, job/professional supervisors, or community leaders with whom you have worked. Select people you know personally, who are familiar with your achievements and goals in terms of leadership, motivation and dependability, potential for growth, communication skills, character and integrity. When possible, the recommendations should come from someone who has worked with you in a college environment. A direct link to the form is www.bw.edu/recommendation-LHE.

Internship Approval

Full-time candidates: Once an application for the LHE program is complete and reviewed by the Admission Committee, successful candidates will be interviewed by the LHE Program Director and Graduate Student Team. An internship approved by the LHE Program Director is required for admission to the LHE program.

Part-time candidates: Submit theInitial Internship Proposal Form along with a current job description. The Initial Internship Proposal indicates that the applicant and the applicant's supervisor cooperatively created the proposal as well as understand the criteria and considerations for the internship. An Initial Internship Proposal approved by the LHE program director is required for admission to the program.

Meet with an Admission Counselor

An interview with a member of the Admission Committee is not a requirement, but recommended for any candidate who wants the opportunity to talk more in depth about the program. To schedule an appointment with an admission counselor, call 440-826-8016 or email Lydia Avery at lavery@bw.edu to request an interview.